Quantum Physics of Matter

Bei Zeng, Xie Chen, Duan-Lu Zhou +1 more

This is the draft version of a textbook, which aims to introduce the quantum information science viewpoints on condensed matter physics to graduate students in physics (or interested researchers). We keep the writing in a self-consistent way, requiring minimum background in quantum information science. Basic knowledge in undergraduate quantum physics and condensed matter physics is assumed. We start slowly from the basic ideas in quantum information theory, but wish to eventually bring the readers to the frontiers of research in condensed matter physics, including topological phases of matter, tensor networks, and symmetry-protected topological phases.

Viv Kendon, Nicholas Chancellor

Quantum annealing leverages the properties of interacting quantum spin systems to solve computational problems, typically optimisation problems. Current hardware now has capabilities that can be used to solve condensed matter physics problems, too. In this topical review, we provide an overview of quantum annealing aimed at condensed matter physicists, to show the mutual benefits of working together to understand and improve how quantum annealers work, and to use them to advance condensed matter physics.

K. H. Hicks

Abstract Black holes occur when matter collapses inward. So what keeps matter apart? Without this simple fact—that atoms repel each other—all matter would collapse, and there would be no life. The reason that matter stays apart is due to the Pauli principle, named after physicist Wolfgang Pauli. It is a principle of quantum mechanics. However, the basis for this physical “law” is not understood. It just is. Without it, life in our universe would not be possible. This chapter discusses the basics of quantum physics in simple language along with boxes about the physicists who formulated this theory. The goal is to help the reader understand that quantum physics is another balance point in the existence of life.

Antonis Modinos

Karl Ferdinand Herzfeld